Files & editing / Learn by doing
PSD explained simply
What is “PSD”?
Photoshop’s document format, commonly used to keep editable layers, masks and other project information.
- 01Layered project
- 02Save master
- 03Export delivery
How do you use PSD practically?
A small exercise
Save a layered edit as PSD, close it and reopen it. Check that the adjustments and masks remain editable.
- Make a starting version and keep it so you can compare fairly.
- Try the change in the exercise. Keep unrelated choices steady where the exercise allows.
- Compare the result at the size your viewer will actually see. Write down what changed and whether it helped.
How does PSD solve a problem?
It preserves an editable master so later client changes do not require starting again.
What can go wrong?
Many clients need an exported image rather than a PSD. Keep a separate delivery copy.
How do you turn the idea into a useful solution?
Start with the specific problem in your image or brief, try the exercise, and keep the version that meets that need. If the result is worse, return to the starting version and change one choice at a time.
Quick check: can you explain the three ideas in the diagram?
Layered project → Save master → Export delivery. Explain how each relates to the exercise. Then compare the starting version with your result and choose the one that meets your brief.
Related video lesson
File formats — Canon
This related lesson gives wider context for the topic. Camera menus and software versions may differ from yours.
Loading the player connects to YouTube. You can also watch the lesson on YouTube.Keep exploring
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